Old Testament
Genesis 41:19
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In Genesis 41:19, Pharaoh dreams of seven cows that are thin and unattractive, which follow seven healthy and robust cows.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
"Then seven other cows came up behind them — scrawny, extremely ugly, and thin. I have never seen such miserable-looking animals anywhere in Egypt."
And, behold, seven other kine came up after them, poor and very ill favoured and leanfleshed, such as I never saw in all the land of Egypt for badness:
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In Genesis 41:19, Pharaoh dreams of seven cows that are thin and unattractive, which follow seven healthy and robust cows. This imagery highlights the stark contrast between abundance and scarcity. The thin cows symbolize impending famine, while the healthy ones represent prosperity. The dream serves as a divine warning to Pharaoh about the future of Egypt, indicating that a time of plenty will be followed by a time of severe lack. The description of the cows as 'miserable-looking' emphasizes the severity of the coming crisis. This moment is crucial as it sets the stage for Joseph's interpretation of Pharaoh's dreams, showcasing God's control over the future and His ability to reveal it through dreams. The vivid imagery of the cows helps to convey the seriousness of the message and the need for preparation in the face of adversity.
Key themes
Related topics
Related Bible verses
How to apply Genesis 41:19 to your life
This verse reminds us of the importance of being aware of the signs around us. Just as Pharaoh was warned through his dreams, we should be attentive to the challenges and changes in our lives. Preparation and foresight can help us navigate difficult times ahead.
Curated for this public verse page. Genesis Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Genesis 41:19 mean?
Genesis 41:19 describes Pharaoh's dream of seven thin and ugly cows that follow seven healthy cows. This imagery symbolizes the contrast between abundance and scarcity, indicating a future famine following a time of plenty.
What is the significance of the cows in Genesis 41:19?
The cows in Genesis 41:19 represent two contrasting states: the healthy cows symbolize prosperity, while the thin cows foreshadow impending famine. This dream serves as a warning to Pharaoh about the future challenges Egypt will face.
What does 'ill favoured' mean in Genesis 41:19?
The term 'ill favoured' in Genesis 41:19 refers to the thin and unattractive appearance of the cows. It emphasizes their poor condition, highlighting the severity of the coming famine.
How does Genesis 41:19 relate to preparation for crisis?
Genesis 41:19 illustrates the importance of recognizing signs of change, as Pharaoh's dream warns of a future famine. This teaches us to be proactive and prepare for potential difficulties in our own lives.
The Book of Genesis
Genesis 1: Creation
God creates the heaven and the earth, and the earth is without form and void, covered in darkness as His Spirit moves upon the waters. He speaks light into existence, separates it from darkness, and names them Day and Night. He divides the waters with a firmament called Heaven, gathers the lower waters to reveal dry land called Earth, and commands the earth to bring forth grass, herbs, and fruit trees yielding seed after their kind. He sets the sun, moon, and stars in the firmament to divide day from night, to give light, and to mark seasons, days, and years. He fills the waters with living creatures and the air with fowl, blessing them to multiply, then creates cattle, creeping things, and beasts of the earth. Finally, He creates man in His own image, male and female, gives them dominion over all living things, and appoints every herb and tree for food, and He sees that all He has made is very good.
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